Odisha Crime branch questions key witness in Naba Das assassination

Bhubaneswar, March 22: The Odisha Crime Branch has intensified its investigation into the broad daylight murder of senior BJD leader and former Health and Family Welfare Minister Naba Kishore Das, which occurred over two years ago. As part of its efforts to gather more information, the agency has been questioning multiple individuals linked to the case.

On Saturday, a Crime Branch team visited the Brajarajnagar police station, conducting a detailed probe. Among those interrogated was Saroj Sa, a man who was reportedly present at the crime scene when Naba Das was allegedly shot by Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Gopal Das. Sources reveal that Saroj had garlanded the minister moments before the shooting near Gandhi Chowk in Brajarajnagar, where Das had arrived to attend an event.

Notably, Saroj had also retrieved the firearm of the then Inspector-in-Charge (IIC) of Brajarajnagar following the shooting. Speaking about the incident, Saroj stated, “After garlanding Naba Das, I saw Gopal Das firing a blank shot. As we rushed to overpower him, I noticed the IIC’s gun holster was open. Fearing someone might grab the firearm, I took it away.” He clarified that he had no intention of harming anyone.

A senior Crime Branch official confirmed that Saroj’s statement had been recorded, as he is considered a key witness in the ongoing investigation. The probe continues, with authorities working to uncover more details surrounding the high-profile murder.